Though it is not always possible, purchasing from an authorized distributor removes a lot of risk. Short of that, more flexibility on the component engineering side for old programs can save a lot of heartache down the line. It is expenisve to re-spin a board, but a lot less than the pain of a counterfeit!

Silicon Expert has a very nice database of datasheets but I don't think I am convinced on this system. Generating a BOM based on the risk of the components being used? It's nice in theory but will never work.
Netteligent, if you have such knowledge regarding these huge operations it is your duty to tell the authorities otherwise you are just as bad.
The best way to stay counterfeit free is to know your supplier. Physically visit your independent distributors, limit the amount which you use, make sure they're ISO 9001:2008 certified and review their inspection process.

Unlike Vineet Chaudhary product marketing manager at SiliconExpert, I can effectively point out exactly where the counterfeit products come from and who are running these huge operation.
You have the power, connections and wills. All you have to do is putting them out of business for a very long time at a minimal fees.

Interesting article.
Just for fun, I looked up the part shown in the screen shot, OP249AZ/883.
The counterfeit risk has increased from 65% to 85% in the 5 days since this article was posted.
Make of that what you will.
Joe

In this day and age of using Independent Distributors for obsolete, allocated, hard to find, end of life technology, who (at the supplier level) does not take the extra steps of having the "subject items" tested to the fullest extent? I have been in this industry for over 18 years. Are we here to make a profit? Absolutely, profit is not a dirty word, however, our organization, like many other "worthy independent suppliers' take every step necessary to A. use extreme caution of who we procure our material from and B. have every item tested for form, fit, and function before it is shipped to the OEM/CEM. Independent Distributors play a major role within the supply chain of almost every manufacturer that exists. So, in the end and in order to eliminate counterfeit product from penetrating any given supply chain, it comes down to the supply chain managers, planners, and buyers partnering with reputable and solid organizations who follow a very strict standard.

Absolutely, it's about managing the risk. I worry more about human errors than the technology, to be honest. You can invest millions/billions in secure infrastrcutures but it takes just a silly mistake by one of your employees to expose your whole infrastructure.

I actually think you guys are being a bit too pessimistic. Hopefully! Perhaps with better electronic tagging systems or some sort of (I was going to say biometric... but that makes no sense...so perhaps chemical or electronic) verification method, we will be able to stem counterfeiting significantly. I doubt that counterfeit electronics dealers are willing to put in the effort if the rewards are not as high.